Heavenly Bodyguards

Readings for Tuesday September 29, 2009

Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels

First Reading: Daniel 7:9-10,13-14 or Revelation 12:7-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 138
Gospel: John 1:47-51


War broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon. The dragon and its angels fought back, but they did not prevail and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. The huge dragon, the ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, who deceived the whole world, was thrown down to earth, and its angels were thrown down with it. (Rv 12:7-9)

Have you ever had your own personal body guard? I know that many celebrities and political figures typically have their own bodyguards that follow them around protecting them from potential danger. I realize that I may not have the earthly status to ever have a bodyguard, but my Father in heaven has seen it fit for my to have a heavenly one. God in His abundant love for us does not leave us here to fend for ourselves; no, He sends us the angels to help us and to protect us.

Today we celebrate the feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. These angels are mentioned by name in the bible, and while they are pure spiritual beings, we call them saints because of their holiness and loyalty to God. They are great messengers and mighty warriors who fight for God and are at the command of Christ. Even in all of their splendor and with all of their power, they still humbly and obediently follow the Lord.

We would do well not only to ask for their intercessions and protection, but also follow their example. No matter how great that we think we are, or how much power we may think we have; we still serve the Lord and should seek to give Him all the glory. Satan and the other angels all seemed to have forgotten this, I pray that we never do.

Father above, we thank you and praise you for the gift of this day. Lord, we pray that you would send your servants Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael to help guide us and protect us while on this earth. Lord, we thank you for all that you give and all that you do. Help increase our faith so that we may always be obedient and do what is pleasing to you. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.